The Fijian Drua Women have named their matchday 23 for the first round of the 2024 Buildcorp Super Rugby Women’s competition against the Queensland Reds on Sunday.
The Drua have named the experienced Karalaini Naisewa as season captain.
The Mosese Rauluni-coached side for this week includes two debutants – Unaisi Lalabalavu and Merewairita Neivosa – in the starting 15.
Six potential debutants have been named on the bench. They include Loraini Senivutu, Salanieta Nabuli, Tiana Robanakadavu, Aviame Veidreyaki, Merewai Nasilasila and Atelaite Ralivanawa.
In the starting 15, Rauluni has named a strong front row with the experienced Anasimeci Korovata at loosehead prop, Lalabalavu to make her debut at hooker, and Mereoni Vonosere at tighthead.
In the second row is Mereoni Nakesa will partner with Jade Coates. New squad member Teresia Tinanivalu comes in as blindside to pair Sulita Waisega at openside. Captain Karalaini Naisewa will lead the side in her regular number 8 jumper.
The backline sees Evivi Senikarivi starting at halfback, with former North Queensland Cowboys speedster Merewalesi Rokouono slotting in at flyhalf. Adita Milinia starts on the left wing to pair with Neivosa who will be on the right wing.
An experienced centre pairing starts this first match with Merewai Cumu at inside and Vani Arei on the outside. Completing the matchday 23 at fullback is Luisa Tisolo.
Providing cover on the bench at hooker is rookie Senivutu, with youngster Nabuli & Robanakadavu as impact for the front row. Veidreyaki and Nasilasila will cover the locks and backrow.
In the backline, Setaita Railumu is the backup halfback, Jeniffer Ravutia is the backup flyhalf, and another rookie Ralivanawa covering the wings.
